Smooth Blue Aster
Symphyotrichum laeve

Courtesy of R.W. Smith, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Summary
Unlike many other asters, the leaves of smooth blue aster are indeed smooth to the touch. Its sturdy stems help it stay upright through the summer and fall, and support billowing panicles of blue-violet flowers. This easy- to- grow native is slow to spread, but is long-lived in the garden, rewarding you for years to come.
More Details
FAMILY
Asteraceae (Aster)
BLOOM TIME
September to October
FLOWER
Blue-purple
MATURE SIZE
2-4 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Full sun
SOIL CONDITIONS
average, dry to medium
NATIVE STATUS
PA Native
Ecosystem Connections
The beautiful late-blooming flowers attract many different pollinators. Smooth Blue Aster is also a host plant for the silvery checkerspot and pearl crescent butterflies. Songbirds and small mammals eat the seeds.